One Hour at Wal-Mart

What I learned in 60 minutes at Life's SuperStore.

Did I really need to buy a gas cap for my Toyota on a late Friday afternoon?

Probably not.

I suppose it is a good idea to have a cap on your gas tank. After all, the car does come with one. Somehow mine got lost and I had been driving around without one for weeks. It was starting to bother me. And I have a problem with procrastination anyway.

And so I pulled into my trusty summer locale Wal-Mart in upstate New York. After all, Wal-Mart has everything.

It was dangerously close to 6:00 p.m. on a Friday and the parking lot was brimming with bargain hunters. I resisted my usual temptation to drive around until I find a prime parking spot just 15 seconds or less from the entrance and just grabbed the first available open space -- a full 60 seconds away.

Sprinting my way to the front doors I hardly noticed the steadily sinking August sun. Shabbat would be here soon (7:26 to be exact) and no hurrying of mine would prevent its imminent arrival. I snatched an empty wagon and burst into Shopping Heaven.

I don't visit Wal-Mart very often, but its sheer immensity can actually take your breath away, which is probably why I instinctively grabbed that wagon even though I was only going in for a tiny gas cap. And off I went to find the Automotive department.

The first distraction was the Produce section. Grapes (of several colors) were on sale for 79 cents a pound! What a bargain! I snapped up a bunch. Right next to them were hard peaches. I gave one a feel. They were really hard. And my wife loves really hard peaches. "I'll be a hero," I thought as I corked a bunch of them in a plastic bag and laid them in the bottom of the wagon.

Next I scooted down a main Wal-Mart boulevard and passed aisles of cereals, paper goods, chips, and frozen stuff on my right. They all looked kind of tempting, especially since some of the shelves had bright yellow ‘come-on' signs, declaring to the world how cheap they were. But time was short, and I made my way past them.

But then, out of nowhere, I was met face to face with a huge geometric mound of Caffeine Free Diet Pepsi boxes -- 24 cans in each -- for (are you ready?) $5.99! Even my dulled division skills could quickly reckon that I'd be paying less than 25 cents each for my beloved soda! "This is my lucky day," I muttered as I stashed two crates in my cart (probably smashing the grapes) and drove away.

I then asked a clerk where the Automotive section was and he gave me an Easterly wave. I probably should have checked Mapquest before I left, but I ventured along in that general direction.

"Wait! Look at those shirts!" The summer season was winding down and those benevolent Waltons were practically giving away these gorgeous knit shirts (in 8 or 9 colors) for $9.99! The sign said that they were originally $29.99! Truthfully, I didn't really need more shirts, but at that price I wasn't going to pass them up. It took me a few minutes to figure out the right size (I ended up with XX large... they run small) and to choose the colors, but I grabbed two of them and went merrily on my way.

Strange how you meet certain people in certain places, isn't it? Well, I hadn't seen Barry in years, but there he was running down Aisle 11 with two bottles of horseradish and a big jar of dill gherkins in his hands. "Shabbat essentials," he called them. We were both in a rush, but I couldn't resist catching up on family news for just a minute. "He looks good," I thought as he cut me short and sprinted to the checkout line.

The clock was picking up momentum as I dragged my way past Broadloom, Digital cameras, Athletic socks, Fishing equipment, Toddler toys, Toiletries, Reading glasses, Luggage, Fax machines, Fake flowers, Sandals, Electric blankets, Sun umbrellas, and Industrial extension cords. "I'll come back next week to check out some of that stuff," I declared. There just was no time.

I thought I smelled tires (a good sign), but made a brief pit stop to check out the rechargeable batteries that were also on sale. Using rechargeable batteries is such a sensible idea. There were a few different types of battery kits on the shelf and it definitely took me longer than it should have. But I finally made my choice (the cheapest one, of course), and swung a hard left turn into AUTOMOTIVE... finally.

I checked my cell phone (I never wear a watch). It was nearly 7 o'clock! Where did the time go? I frantically combed the shelves for my indispensable goal -- the holy gas cap.

Rummaging my way past the anti-freeze, wiper fluid, tire inflators and Odor-eaters, I eyed my prize at last. There were only two gas caps left on the shelf. "Must be a popular item," I mused. But which one, if any, would fit my Toyota? The packaging gave no indication.

Panting around the bend I began a desperate search for assistance.

"I don't work in automotive."

"Maybe they're all the same."

"You're gonna have to wait your turn, I'm helpin' this lady with a pressure gauge."

"You gotta go outside, pull your vehicle into the shop around back, and ask one of the mechanics there to try it for you. If it doesn't fit, maybe they'll find you one that does. I'm not really sure."

Not sure? Wait my turn? DON'T THESE PEOPLE KNOW WHAT TIME IT IS?!?

By now, my entire body was sweating profusely. I flipped the stupid gas cap into the wagon, flew up aisle 24, nearly killing innocent children and seniors with my cart, and sought out the shortest check out line. There were at least 16 counters open... AND EVERY SINGLE OF THEM WAS PACKED!

I poked my nose into the carts in front of me. Why, in heaven's name, do people need to buy outdoor carpeting? How many cartons of Enfamil can one baby consume? Does that lady really need a dozen boxes of raisins? And where did these cashiers get their training? The Cayman Islands?

My cell phone said 7:12. Shabbat would arrive in 14 minutes and I was clearly losing my mind.

I must have switched lanes literally eight times in three minutes. Anyone on line with ice cream would soon need a straw to consume it. This was ridiculous. WHY CAN'T THESE PEOPLE GO SHOPPING IN THE MORNING, WHEN I'M NOT HERE?

My cell phone said 7:12. Shabbat would arrive in 14 minutes and I was clearly losing my mind. I took a deep breath and looked down at my wagon. There lay the batteries... and the soda... and the now-not-so-hard peaches. I checked out the cashier situation; nothing was moving. I eyed my blinking cell phone clock. And I looked one last time at my very lonely gas cap... and then I said good-bye.

I wasn't going to make it. Right then and there, I abandoned all of my would-be purchases and tore out of the store empty-handed.

I jumped into my gas cap-less Toyota (a full 60 seconds away) started the engine and felt a tear roll down my left cheek. It wasn't a tear of sadness. It was a tear of shame.

Less than five minutes later I entered my summer bungalow. Brushing past my freshly bathed grandchildren I headed straight for my bedroom without saying a word. I couldn't. The clock read 7:22.

A LOT OF LESSONS

It took a few days of serious contemplation, but I learned a lot from my hour in Wal-Mart.

We come into this world with everything available to us. This planet is truly the ultimate Super Store. In many respects our potential is unlimited; our possibilities endless. But we are only here for a certain amount of time, so we must plan accordingly.

We each have a goal, a mission, a purpose, perhaps a certain wrongdoing that we need to correct or a hole that we need to "cap," and we are given a wagon to wheel around. But the distractions are everywhere. The fruit looks so fresh and inexpensive, but maybe it is forbidden. The peaches can make me "a hero." Surely there is time for that. So we stop... and pick.

We see signs that beckon us to stop and browse and choose, but we withstand the temptation and feel proud and maybe also a bit complacent. So that seconds later when our "favorite soda" is really cheap, we cannot resist and we take an enormous amount -- maybe more than we need?

We continue on our road, seeking our destination, and we ask for help or direction. But we don't always ask the right people. Maybe we should have done our homework before, so we would know where to look.

Old friends will cross our path. We want to catch up, but they are running and are sometimes more focused on reaching their goal than we are. So they have no time for us. Isn't that sad?

We check the clock. Our time is truly running out. But we cannot shift gears. We continue to pursue our original quest, no matter how mundane or unnecessary it really is. We fail to see that sometimes it's just not working. We delude ourselves and believe that somehow there is time for everything. Our priorities are clouded or are completely out of sync.

And then, at long last, when we finally arrive at the finish line, we don't even know if the solution will fit anymore. Frantically, we ask anyone for immediate advice, but they are busy or don't even work in that department.

Despairingly, we just collect all the "junk" we've accumulated and run like crazy (while inconveniencing others) to try to acquire it and take it with us. But the lines are long...very, very long. Even then, after all we've been through, we are blinded. Instead of taking responsibility for our actions and decisions, we ask ridiculous questions that shift the blame to anyone and everyone but us.

In the end, we must leave the wagon behind. All our work was for nothing. Poor planning, skewed priorities, too many distractions, and not enough time.

Yes. Wal-Mart does have everything. Just make sure you get what you really need.

Featured at Aish.com:

About the Author

Rabbi Yaakov Salomon, C.S.W. is a noted psychotherapist, in private practice in Brooklyn, N.Y. for over 25 years. He is a Senior Lecturer and the Creative Director of Aish Hatorah's Discovery Productions. He is also an editor and author for the Artscroll Publishing Series and a member of the Kollel of Yeshiva Torah Vodaath.

In these marvelous stories -- brimming with wit, understanding, a touch of irony and a large helping of authentic Torah perspective -- we will walk with a renowned and experienced psychotherapist and popular author through the pathways of contemporary life: its crowded sidewalks, its pedestrian malls, and the occasional dead end street. This is a walk through our lives that will be fun, entertaining -- and eye-opening. In our full -- sometimes overfull -- and complex lives, Yaakov Salomon is a welcome and much-needed voice of sanity and reason.

His speaking, writing and musical talents have delighted audiences from Harvard to Broadway and everything in between. Rabbi Salomon shares his life with his wife, Temmy, and their unpredictable family.

If Rabbi Solomon was at the WalMart I think he was at (Monticello, NY) all he needed to do was park near the auto department and enter the store directly in it. There would have been the minimum of distractions and he would have gotten out quickly. When one is under time pressure distractions are a great problem, but make for an interesting and funny article.

(129)
Theodore Gutwein,
October 30, 2016 4:08 PM

Wow!

Your Walmart article was excellent. Well written and a very enjoyable read. And your comparison to real life was eloquently put. Really enjoyed it. Thank you. Ted.

(128)
Karen R,
November 4, 2013 9:49 PM

It not about Walmart it's about life.

The choices we make with our time, the importance of living for a higher purpose than material things. Yes life has everything but what will we choose.

(127)
Jillian,
October 19, 2013 7:23 PM

terrific article

And besides the important lessons learned and shared, thank you for a great laugh and hysterical point-on article describing the super-store!

(126)
Simcha,
October 18, 2013 5:37 AM

Excellent Metaphor

Ironically, Rabbi Salomon's point is lost on many of the respondents. The Wal*Mart haters are so lost in their self-righteousness that they miss the whole point of the story. I believe it has something to do with setting priorities.

But on the subject of Wal*Mart, between a quarter and one half of a BILLION people have been lifted out of abject poverty in China and other third world countries in the last 10 years because of Wal*Mart related jobs. A low paid job is better than no job and starvation. I also seem to recall that giving someone a job is pretty high up on the Rambam's list of charitable acts.

As for US citizens, according to the web, 1.4 million Americans work at Wal*Mart. I have a cousin that works at the Mart. She doesn't think it's a bad job. I wonder how many jobs the haters have created? When a new Wal*Mart opens, there are always lines to get jobs.

And if you have shopped in a supermarket, I guess you have also put mom and pop stores out of business. Wal*mart specializes in efficiency, efficiency that puts about $2,500 in each and every families wallet by reducing prices not only in the Mart, but in other stores as well.

Wal*Mart may not be perfect but they do far more good than harm. My priority is to help lift people out of poverty and empowering them with a job, not making myself feel good about myself.

I hope the rabbi finds a gas cap (even if it is just to stop volatile organic compounds from escaping into the atmosphere as one respondent is concerned about). Gut Shabbos!

Anonymous,
October 18, 2013 10:09 PM

I disagree with Simcha

Lifting someone out of poverty by enabling them to work is certainly righteous, but taking advantage of someone's hunger and poverty by giving them a meal in return for their doing onerous, demeaning, burdensome and extraordinary amounts of work for that meal, to me, is a greater sin than not giving them any work at all.

Kim Phillips,
October 19, 2013 12:09 PM

WalMart's practices are well-documented.

From the way they treat employees to their heavy-handed tactics with suppliers, to the way they threaten to close stores if called out on employment abuses...WalMart has does as much as any organization I can think of to skew our retail economy away from humane, manageable local establishments to large, cold, cookie-cutter box stores that ruin every little town they settle in.

MiriamEsther,
October 20, 2013 3:49 AM

Thanks

Not sure which I enjoyed more ... the article (probably) or the response by Simcha!

(125)
Harry Pearle,
October 17, 2013 11:07 PM

See: "THE PARADOX of CHOICE" book and TED.com Video

Great wisdom! I suggest the book, The PARADOX of CHOICE by Barry Schwartz and the TED.com video on it. Prof.Schwartz makes the case that with too many choices, we all too often wind up feeling unhappy with our selections......But perhaps we can FOCUS on some of our "GAS CAP" selections as a way of humorously giving our lives PERSPECTIVE:...

(124)
Samantha,
October 17, 2013 4:17 PM

fairness

It seems that the author learned a valuable lesson about consumerism. What he seemed not to know is that Wal Mart employees are not unionized, and Wal Mart is known to discriminate against promoting women into management positions.Doing the right thing is an important Jewish lesson. Not patronizing a store that treats its workers unfairly should also be part of the choice we all make when we are consumers.

Anonymous,
October 18, 2013 12:38 PM

Good point, Samantha. This adds to the initial article a pertinent complement. :)

(123)
elaine,
October 15, 2013 12:32 PM

wallmart - not kosher

Years ago I was taught Kosher meant spiritually fit to eat, and that the term often included spiritually appropriate in general. When you make a purchase you are supporting that store and its values. Employees in stores are treated horribly, unpaid overtime, time sheet theft and fired when abuses are reported. Those in the warehouses are also fired when they report unsafe conditions which are rampant. Goods made overseas are in produced in squalor by people paid starvation wages. (remember the fire in India that killed 100s, that was Wallmart). Please shop at a place that treats its employees as you would want to be treated.

Anonymous,
October 18, 2013 12:35 PM

100% agree! :) My family and I have decided to boycott Walmart years ago.

Bob,
October 18, 2013 10:01 PM

Un-Kosher Walmart

I wish more people knew how very correct you are. Don't people ever stop to think just how it is that Walmart can sell everything so cheap? No, it is not just because of its size, far from it!

(122)
C Phillips,
October 14, 2013 2:18 PM

high cost in human lives for a cheap price!

Support your local farmer and merchants instead of this morally bankrupt company.

Anonymous,
October 18, 2013 12:36 PM

:)

(121)
Pres Engle,
October 14, 2013 1:58 PM

Incredibly insightful

What a life lesson, and proof that we can and should, always be cognizant of how we spend our time.....for many years I felt like the Rabbi, always rushing from one task to another...it took a beloved cousin's suicide to make me realize that I should live to enjoy every moment, and squeeze all I can out of the life that G-d has given me.

(120)
peter,
October 14, 2013 6:57 AM

thankyou

If anyone thinks this is about walmart they need to ask why am I here where did I come from and where am I going.You wont find the answer in walmart but you might when you leave

SusanE,
October 14, 2013 10:35 PM

This is about life lessons.

What happened to the Rabbi in Wal-Mart is what happens in life. Lotsa' lessons here. Rushing thru life. Forgeting priorities. Saying 'Why Me". 'Filling our cart' with unnecessary junk that isn't good for us. He reminds how we can be sidetracked and must always keep our blinders on when passing temptation. And to control our impulses. Wal-Mart is a perfect example of his message to us.

(119)
Anonymous,
October 14, 2013 3:22 AM

Could look at this a few different ways

Fun but deep article. However, I think your problem is, that you're a guy. Women have much more experience and skill at the shopping issue. Targeting is an important technique in accomplishing anything, and it definitely is easy to get distracted by the 10,000 things (as the Chinese say). But women know that when shopping at a place like Walmart, you don't step foot in there unless you know you'll have time to peruse the goods. And technology can help too, ordering online from Walmart or Amazon works great and is fast; Amazon probably even has the gas cap you need. And I do hope you have gotten a gas cap, you don't want any water, condensation or dirt etc. getting in there! :)

(118)
John Pursley,
October 14, 2013 1:58 AM

Wisdom

In the end, it wasn't about Walmart at all.

(117)
Feigele,
October 13, 2013 11:56 PM

Better laugh than cry at this story!

I think Rabbi Salomon was challenging G-d in a race for time. He wanted to prove that he was capable to do all his errands in time just for Chabat. Otherwise, why would he have waited Friday night to do so when he had all other days for weeks. Call it procrastination, I call it defiance. When he realized that he was not going to win this challenge, he suddenly feared G-d’ wrath and panicked. I go to Wal-Mart very often, not to buy stuff really, but to exercise walking the aisles for over one hour. I’m sure there are other auto part stores in the Rabbi’s neighborhood and it would have been so simple to just stop there at a more decent time.

(116)
Chanah,
October 13, 2013 11:33 PM

Excellent Article!

I have not had a good laugh recently. Thanks so much for writing this excellent article, and reminding me of how I have left my own cart in the store on various occasions. I also enjoyed the parallels you draw between your shopping trip and the journey through life. Yasher Koach!

(115)
SusanE,
October 13, 2013 9:04 PM

Rabbi, No WalMart on Friday Afternoons!!

I'm posting my comment from 2009 again - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - "Rabbi, The simple act of grabbing a shopping cart, shows you subconsciously intended to fill it. Pure and simple, you were there for a gas cap. When you took the cart you were already out of control. That is what Wal-Mart runs on. Unnecessary buying. They offer necessities at low prices, and the average customer thinks that they have saved money on the essentials, so they can 'afford' to pick up a little something else. - Like a gambler going to the casino with $20. and stopping gambling and going home when the $20 is gone. DUH. If we can not limit ourselves to the 'One Item' we need at WalMart then we should not go into the WalMarts again. - If you readers think this isn't true, next time you go into Wal-Mart take exactly $5 in your pocket and buy 1/2 gallon of milk and a loaf of bread and leave. See how hard it is to pass those full tempting shelves. - I have a Wal-Mart about 1,500 feet from my home. I KNOW from experience. I don't go there any more. Thank you Rabbi Salomon for the insights.

(114)
Anonymous,
October 13, 2013 7:01 PM

Transparence of Character

Great article. It made me laugh thinking that I personally know a few people who constantly do exactly that. But, recogninzing at the end that "Instead of taking responsibility for our actions and decisions", and instead of asking the " ridiculous questions that shift the blame to anyone and everyone but us", the experience takes us into a deep instropection that teaches us that being short on time to purchase just one item, like the gas cap, we don't really need to use the store cart to carry it. By pulling the cart along with us on our rush, only invite us to grab more, perhaps not needed items from Wal Mart and to waist unnecessary time on a Friday evening. Not only is the time gone fast forcing us to leave the store without our much needed small single item, but also, we impose more work for the low paid Wal Mart workers of the particular store, if we leave behind all the unnecessary items we chose to place in the store cart, but that then because of short time, we were unable to either pay for those items, or return those items to the shelves where we took them from, and now the store staff would have to clean the cart by removing all the items left in it by us, and put them back where they belonged. I don't normally shop at Walt Mart, but have been to one of their store twice before and can understand how easy the sale marketing tactics could be for 98% of their customers. I personally think it was a great experience, as Hashem has His unique way to teach us. Independently of our education, titles and intelligence and intellect, many times If we don't go through the dramatic experience, perhaps we would never learn certain things in life. Thank you very much Rab Salomon for sharing an educational experience.

(113)
ruth housman,
October 13, 2013 6:52 PM

the Big Super

I rarely shop at Wal Mart, because there is some bad press about how they treat their staff, as in unconscionably low wages and several times, I found the place to be big and filled with stuff, but hard to negotiate, and few people to guide the way. Maybe the steerage section is disgruntled by low wages. I am not sure God would care whether you made it out, exactly on time, but then again, I do not share this belief. In fact, had you helped someone in line or found some opportunity as in talking to a friend, that would be a mitzva and I seriously doubt God counts seconds. Still, we all learn lessons from the supermarket and these are yours, and I honor them.

(112)
Yossie,
October 13, 2013 6:41 PM

Excellent

Really an excellent article!

(111)
Melissa,
October 13, 2013 5:48 PM

Very true to life!!

i have literally gone into walmart with only a few minutes left - thinking i don't have this 1 item (usually milk, essentials, etc.) then i get to the line ups and its like: (nope!! do not pass go, do not collect $200); gambling and games we play with ourselves. ... i'm actually not doing badly boycotting walmart and their general internat'l platform of cheapening our workforce for over 5 years ... but it meant i had to start banking at a separate branch - so this is exactly what i did. Too much temptation & too many late shabbats; as grownups we still need to supervise ourselves, evidentally!!

(110)
Dona Forehand,
October 13, 2013 5:15 PM

How true this article was! I enjoyed it.I live in a small town and Wal-Mart is the only place to shop.So sad!

rosemarie,
October 13, 2013 8:16 PM

Walmart

perhaps there is a nearby town where the stores are not Walmart. I wouldn't walk into a Walmart to use the ladies' room...showing solidarity with the underpaid and exploited workers. We were once slaves in Egypt...

(109)
Sanford ("Sandy") Goodman,
October 13, 2013 5:11 PM

I have found a way to resist temptation

I hate shopping. That’s why I rarely go to Walmart, but when I do a take a list and get only what’s on there and nothing more.

If I should see something that looks good I’ll just pass it up and put on a special list for a separate trip. This method saves time and money.

I do my best to avoid temptations. That’s why my phone number is on a “do not call” list. In short, I have learned to remain focused.

Sandy Goodman, Dallas Texas

(108)
Allen Runyon,
October 13, 2013 3:56 PM

great story.

This is really a great sermon. If you really listen. We need to be good stewards of our time. God will hold us responsible for how we spend our time. This story was truly a blessing and also a great leson. It's amazing how God can and will speak to you.

(107)
Dr. Donna,
October 13, 2013 3:41 PM

Not worth the price

Check out a book entitled "Nickle and Dimed": it shows just why those grapes are so inexpensive - Walmart saves you money by paying its workers poorly.

(106)
Harold,
October 13, 2013 3:12 PM

Funny and brilliant!

Thank you.

(105)
rebecca,
October 13, 2013 2:07 PM

How True!

Insightful article with one little suggestion. Peaches and grapes are good but the diet soda, I would leave it alone, much too toxic for the body! Shana Tova and a good healthy to everyone!

(104)
Anonymous,
August 24, 2010 7:51 PM

What truth in a very humourous article, with so much reality

I enjoy so many fiekls of life, and I found this article very funny.

(103)
Joey,
July 8, 2010 9:44 PM

I can relate...thanks for writing this, and God bless!

(102)
SusanE,
November 29, 2009 12:23 AM

You Were "Hooked" in the Parking Lot. Good Article

Rabbi, The simple act of grabbing a shopping cart, shows you subconsciously intended to fill it. Pure and simple, you were there for a gas cap. When you took the cart you were already out of control. That is what Wal-Mart runs on. Unnecessary buying. They offer necessities at low prices, and the average customer thinks that they have saved money on the essentials, so they can 'afford' to pick up a little something else. - Like a gambler going to the casino with $20. and stopping gambling and going home when the $20 is gone. DUH. If we can not limit ourselves to the 'One Item' we need at WalMart then we should not go into the WalMarts again. - If you readers think this isn't true, next time you go into Wal-Mart take exactly $5 in your pocket and buy 1/2 gallon of milk and a loaf of bread and leave. See how hard it is to pass those full tempting shelves. - I have a Wal-Mart about 1,500 feet from my home. I KNOW from experience. I don't go there any more. Thank you Rabbi Salomon for the insights.

(101)
Atara,
November 5, 2009 9:43 PM

Amazing! good job

(100)
,
November 5, 2009 1:56 PM

Loved it! I'm struggling in general and don't know which way to turn.

(99)
leah,
November 4, 2009 11:15 AM

i live on mitzpe yericho but come in to work for walmart as a pharmacist a coupe of months a year....so I really laughed at this one.........So true...... so true

(98)
MIRNA BAIZ,
November 2, 2009 8:54 AM

BEAUTIFUL,SIMPLY BREATHTAKING. YOU MADE ME LAUGH AND YOU MADE ME CRY.THANK YOU,SHALOM.

(97)
raye,
October 30, 2009 10:41 AM

Bargain hunting

I used to shop for clothes by catalog, like Land's End. I would haphazardly read the labels. Although the items that were USA made were far superior, they were also more expensive than the imported ones. I begain to have guilt feelings a) about the poorly paid workers in third world countries; b) about jobs being taken away from USA workers; c) about greed.

(96)
mike,
October 30, 2009 12:42 AM

great article

i have been reading R' salomon's articles for years and think deeply (more or less)after each one. this one much more. mike

(95)
Anonymous,
October 29, 2009 10:58 PM

Interesting

That was quite intriguing. Who knew Wal mart could teach someone so much? A great real life metaphor that I will keep in mind. Thank you for this wonderful article!

(94)
Anonymous,
October 28, 2009 7:12 AM

the difference

you learned a "heart/gut-wrenching" lesson about the difference between "temptation" versus "inspiration" and now you have passed it along for all of us to learn from. Thank you.

(93)
yocheved,
October 28, 2009 5:00 AM

amazing

thank you so so much Rabbi Saloman
that was incredible
i needed to hear that

(92)
Anonymous,
October 27, 2009 9:14 PM

great article
I dont know why some coments are critical, or "holier than thou", again great article
Heck it happened to most of us, at one time or another

(91)
Anonymous,
October 27, 2009 6:57 PM

hilarious and entertaining way of driving home some important lessons.

(90)
rk,
October 27, 2009 6:51 PM

Great article

Thank you Rabbi Salomon- I really enjoyed this article! Your story is one that is easy to relate to and the message was powerful! Its sad to see the number of posts which reflect the exact attitude you are referring to in this article. Rabbi Salomon shows us how we can often get caught up in the little things and miss out on the big picture. Instead of focusing on non relevant issues (which may in fact be very important- like air pollution and ethical treatment of employees), we should strive to learn from and encorporate his message in our lives!

(89)
Frieda Ben ely,
October 27, 2009 3:31 PM

Only if all of us just focus on what we really need in life we would not be distracted from the important aspects of life. If threRabbi only had focused to get the gas cap that he needed, he would have accomplish his goal, and would have been home on time for Shabath. Very good lesson to be learned. Very well done article.

(88)
Pesha,
October 27, 2009 11:38 AM

Interesting, but the point was missed

Did you consider the poor folks who work there? They had quite a bit of extra work. Are we as Jews not required to think of others? I think a MAIN point was missed, and an opportunity on how to treat others was overlooked.

(87)
Iris Moskovitz@sbcglobal.net,
October 27, 2009 2:06 AM

Absolutely fabulous story, to get the nimshul across.

Your brilliant comparisons are something that always grab at me, and inspire me. You are an amazing individual, with so much insight to share with the rest of the world. May Hashem continue to give you the wisdom and strength to continue until 120.

(86)
Esther,
October 26, 2009 8:09 PM

A woman would never be able to go shopping an hour before Shabbat!

I keep Shabbat, and I can't even imagine going into a store an hour before Shabbat. Don't you need to cook? Clean? Get your kids ready before Shabbos? At least shower and change yourself? I hope you were able to shower and put on clean clothes in the two or three minutes you had left by the time you got home!

(85)
Miriam,
October 26, 2009 4:24 PM

Powerful. thank you.

(84)
Andrea Pack,
October 26, 2009 1:22 PM

Life parallels the WalMart shop.

A lighthearted adventure through shopper's heaven with a very honest explanation of how it relates to our lives. Very well written and appropriate, reflecting a fine sense of humor. There are lessons here which relate to all of us.
Thank you.

(83)
Debra,
October 26, 2009 12:59 PM

Very well written

I thoroughly enjoyed your whole article-entertaining & enlightening. I cannot go through Walmart w/out doing what you did even when I have a list - focusing on the task at hand is not so easy for those of us who are so easily distracted - it takes all kinds of people to make this a balanced world! I myself find that I am at times scurrying around to get something finished before Shabbat that could really wait another day. I once heard someone say that we have 6 days to prepare for the 7th. I am often reminded of this as I would leave so much to be done on Friday that it was difficult to REST on Shabbat - more like collapse. It is a day that G-d has blessed us with to enjoy & reflect on Him & His goodness. Thanks for your writings!

(82)
Yael,
October 26, 2009 6:51 AM

gashmius

I loved this article. I live in israel and I get a similar feeling every time I come to the states. Rushing to get all the stuff we think we need until we can't stuff any more into our suitcases. Then the feeling of shame afterwards... You sure hit the nail on the head.

(81)
James,
October 26, 2009 4:31 AM

a Shabbat Line

I've come to the conclusion that Walmart needs a Shabbat line. No if's, and's or but's. I mean sometimes we're just running late and we realize we've forgotten something we will need during Shabbat. I'm so thankful a liquor store opened up just down the road that sells Kosher wine. They always handle my last minute Shabbat thoughtlessness.

(80)
PM,
October 26, 2009 3:06 AM

Great story! thank you for sharing.

Your story is one we can all believe in.
I was in Jerusalem trying to get the bus before shabbat. Knowing I could be stranded, I ran around several streets until I caught the last bus back to my hotel.
I enjoyed your story which reminds me of my shabbat in Jerusalem.

(79)
Anonymous,
October 26, 2009 12:22 AM

more than meets the eye

The near-insanity described in this piece hints at more than merely misplaced values, or the mistaken conversion of a quest from important to [unduly] vital . The blatant inabiltiy to stop oneself is highly indicative of a tendency toward [ or actual manifestation] of addictive behavior: this person displays the profile of someone who is unable to stop themselves-- regardless of their higest spirtual purpose and against all sensibilities. People need to realize that addictive behavior comes in all shapes and forms and definitions-- and is not limited to just drugs, cigarettes, gambling, abuse or pornography.

(78)
Sheindel,
October 25, 2009 11:53 PM

Thought Provoking

Excellent article, how easy it is for us to be distracted, this world has so many distractions to keep us from what is most important. Thank you for your honesty, may we all look at ourselves.

(77)
cb,
October 25, 2009 11:39 PM

Whoa... think about yourself before jumping on someone else!

I greatly appreciate the premise of the Rabbi's article... which the negative commenters have completely missed! You just can't justify breaking Shabbos for a cart of stuff you don't need anyhow! This was his point...

(76)
cb,
October 25, 2009 11:25 PM

to #68 Sarah

Think of it as job security for your son!

(75)
Elsie Dudovitz,
October 25, 2009 11:00 PM

This article says it all about our present society and the way people unfortunately think!!

I do shop at Walmart, but I try not to be too distracted. It's not easy, but of course that is not the point of the article. Today people think of the I must they must have everything because it's a bargain, whether they need it or not......would they buy elephants if they were two for $5?
Pirkei avot says it best. Who is rich, the person who is
satisfied with what he has.......Love your articles and
the good points you always make..keep them coming.

(74)
Keren,
October 25, 2009 9:48 PM

Been there, done that!

What an absolutely hilarious, wonderful, and wise article! I was in a very similar situation last spring, and so I can relate to your observations and thoughts during the Walmart-Just-Before-Shabbos adventure. I also "ditched" the cart, as my kids say. It was well worth it, and I discovered that going to Walmart early on Sunday mornings is the best time to go, free from distractions, well-rested, and you get only what you need on your list (okay, maybe just a few extra munchies!). Thanks for sharing!

(73)
Steven Smith,
October 25, 2009 9:13 PM

I cringe when it comes to my attention that Jews still shop at Wal-Mart after the Adolf Hitler cake decorating episode.

(72)
Beverly Kurtin,
October 25, 2009 8:51 PM

Things are just things

To the lady whose son has to put all of those things away: Would he have a job if it wasn't to put things away abandoned by other shoppers? Yes, the Waltons could pay for health care for all of their employees, but in all of my discussions with Walmart employees not a single one of them were forced to work for Walmart. Yes, it is a shame that health care has suddenly become important to people, but to tell people who have billions what to do with their money is frankly none of my business. But for your information, the Walton family foundation gives millions of dollars to the educational system in this country. With enough education, you can buy your own insurance.
Recently, I heard a Walmart employee complain to another employee that here it was, payday, and she was already broke. I apologized to overhearing her and asked her if she would like to make more money. She looked at me as though I two heads and, in horror, said, NO.
'Nuff said?

(71)
Jen,
October 25, 2009 8:38 PM

Return to Wal-Mart

So did you go back to Walmart after Shabbat to get the gas cap? And by analogy, does that mean that you believe in reincarnation?

(70)
Anonymous,
October 25, 2009 6:58 PM

shabbat

You forgot to say gut shabbos

(69)
Mona,
October 25, 2009 6:15 PM

So True,and totally Funny!

Thankyou for this insightful article! It really is some "Food for Thought!" I laughed out loud at your descriptions of shopping items,and how you just had to have them! LOL Thanks for posting this!

(68)
Sarah,
October 25, 2009 5:29 PM

My Son Would Have To Put All That Away

Think next time. My son who already works very hard - at Walmart - would be the one who would have to come along and put all of that stuff back on the shelves. Yes, it's part of his job, and yes he is 17 and a good strong boy, but why add to his troubles? He was hit by a car while rounding up shopping carts, the driver was in such a hurry (hello?) that he didn't see my son. It wasn't serious thank G-d, but it might have been. Please, be careful and don't cut your time so short next time - someone else, somewhere, will have to take care of your mess, or G-d forbid, get in the way when you're in a hurry to back out of your space.

(67)
Robert Ridley,
October 25, 2009 5:25 PM

A refreshing and clear call to examine our priorities!

Living in a society which places consumption of goods at the apex of each day's priorities can wear away our sense of true values. How beautifully Rabbi Salomon illustrates this in his story! Almost all of us can identify with his reasoning as he passes each display of goods. What a blessing to be reminded of First Things First in our spiritual practice.

(66)
Mike,
October 25, 2009 4:33 PM

Wall- Mart Phffff!

Hello Rabbi , how are you? Myself ,since inadvertently ( surfing the net ) discovering that the Wal Mart
family are multi- billionares who could easily pay for health-
care for all their employees. But instead squadered millions
to build a huge bunker in the event of what, G*ds punishment for their selfish greed?Their are any number of small family (Jewish ) businesses, that this company has ruinned, so me, I do my purchaces elsewhere!
G*d Bless,

(65)
Rivka Zahava,
October 25, 2009 3:42 PM

Wow, my stomach is all tied in knots from the suspense... a beautifully written article that really says it all!

(64)
Leibel ben Yitzchak,
October 25, 2009 3:36 PM

WORSE Than the Wal-Mart SPACE-TIME WARP...

After a week of 4-hour-per-night sleep, I know what's worse than the WAL-MART SPACE-TIME WAR: THE INTERNET BLACK HOLE! Without Shabbos, I'd be crazy 7/7ths of my life instead of a tolerable 6/7ths!

(63)
ruth housman,
October 25, 2009 2:32 PM

the Wall of Time

I understand what you are saying in this article. But here's an ethical thought, and maybe you won't see this, but here it is: you had a shopping cart filled with items you could not buy as you had to leave in a rush to go home in time for Shabbat. So you left all that work, of putting these items back, one by one, to a person, probably not Jewish, who had to put some effort into repairing your quick abandonment to be home in time for Shabbat.
I am saying, I wonder if God would have excused you, because you see, I think God is more interested in love and love for one's neighbor. There is another side to this story.
As to meeting your friend and greeting your friend, it sounds rather, meant to be. I think life poses these ethical issues for us all, not that you made the Wrong Decision in high footing it out of there, but that there was, something, as always to Think About.

(62)
Susan,
October 25, 2009 11:53 AM

incredibly powerful article

Rabbi Solomon,
Your articles are always spectacular. You have an amazing ablitity to transform mundane experiences in our lives into meaningful Judaic life lessons. I cannot wait to share your article with my students, friends, and family. Thank you!

(61)
Anonymous,
July 10, 2008 11:33 AM

Important Lesson Lossed

Rabbi Salomon's story/sermon was beautiful from a philosophical point of view but a more important lesson was something he apparently did not understand. Driving a car without a gas cap is not only dangerous, pollutes the environment and in many states it is against the law. For more than two weeks he put himself, his family and others at risk, may have lost his car, put noxious fumes into the atmosphere and least important he may have had to pay a fine for his negligence. As I read the piece I was bothered by these other factors distracting me from his main message. Maybe losing a radiator cap would have been better. I guess I think more as an engineer than as a rabbi.

(60)
SylviaMalnikow,
November 29, 2006 8:39 AM

Give thought to what you came to accomplish in your life.

The article came at a good time.

(59)
Eva,
November 19, 2006 12:10 PM

Lessons learned v. missing the point

Great article, great lessons. 1. Prioritize 2. (subtle) Don't leave any shopping, (or laundry, or anything else for that matter) for Friday afternoon. The comments from folks missing the point are hilarious. Thanks for the chuckles.

(58)
Chana,
November 12, 2006 11:26 PM

You are so right

Thank you for helping us to see the bigger picture. It's so easy to get lost in Walmart and the world at large.I hope that we all can keep our prioties and not just chase after the taivas of a bargain when our souls are at stake.

(57)
Larry,
October 27, 2006 8:02 PM

I am sorry

I am so sorry Rabbi, seems none of these fine folk got your true message.I did, and Thank You

(56)
MARILYN,
October 24, 2006 5:15 AM

WALMART IS MY FAVORITE STORE AND ALL ITEMS ARE REASONABLE. THE MAIN REASON I SHOP THERE IS THEY HAVE EVERYTHING SO YOU CAN GET WHAT YOU NEED PLUS THEIR SPECIALS IF NEEDED. ONE FACTOR IS YOU CAN ALWAYS GET SOMEONE TO HELP YOU. BETTER THAN THE DEPT. STORES AND DRUG STORES. I'D RATHER BUY WHAT I NEED THERE THAN ANYWHERE ELSE. I ENJOYED THE RABBI'S STORY. I DON'T HAVE A SUPER WALMART WHERE I LIVE BUT I PREFER THE SUPERMARKET SO I WOULDN'T BUY MY FOOD AT WAL-MART EVEN IF I HAD A SUPER WALMART. I WAS IN A SUPER WALMART IN ARKANSAS AND I DIDN'T LIKE IT. I LIKE THEIR NORMAL STORES. ANYWAY THAT WAS A VERY ENTERTAINING STORY. VERY GOOD. SINCERELY, MARILYN BUSH CLEVELAND, OHIO

(55)
Anonymous,
October 23, 2006 8:11 PM

Dear Rabbi Salomon,Having seen your videos,I could hear your voice as I read your article.I LAUGHED UNTIL I CRIED! Thanks for all of your lessons which,of course,are not about Wal-Mart but so much about all of us. Thank you.

(54)
DavidN.Friedman,
October 22, 2006 3:17 PM

Shocking accusations

I am truly saddened that even this innocent and inspiring bit of wit and wisdom is criticized so openly and directly.

For those who have posted so angrily, I surely object. The point that Rabbi Salomon should not shop at Wal-Mart, period, out of some form of protest for the fact they offer goods at low prices could be thought of some kind of joke, if it wasn't made in all seriousness. The allegations that Wal-Mart is without merit unless they allow labor unions is an argument without merit since a modern labor union is surely no virtue for a working person. It is simply beyond argument that Wal-Mart serves an important function for low income workers and purchasers, for the government and for the consuming public. The fact that their sales and locations, all from honest business, is so gigantic is all the evidence that is needed to blunt any suggestion that a moral man should refrain from shopping at a business like Mal-Mart.

Next, there is the accusation that Rabbi Salomon committed a transgression by abandoning his cart and running to make Shabbos on time. Perhaps these people have never noticed that Wal-Mart employs people precisely for re-stocking and it is not an uncommon or immoral practice to try on a garment and decide to not buy it or consider buying some item and then, to decide against it before paying for it.

As a small-business owner, I surely understand. By contrast, it is far more painful to watch a customer leave the store after having agreed to buy the item and then bring it back for a refund and re-stocking. However, this is ALSO an example of normal business.

In short, we have a fine website that brings Jews wisdom and some readers make the poor choice to offer catcalls and insults to the trained Rabbis that bring the wisdom.

I believe that Rabbi Salomon could offer another bit of Jewish wisdom to help those with such problems.

(53)
JohannaLouisaMiller,
October 22, 2006 1:20 PM

Help where is the right aisle?

loved it loved it loved it

(52)
ilana,
October 22, 2006 8:32 AM

I know exactly where you are coming from...

The seductions and destractions that take from our real purpose in life are many. And when we are haphazard in our approach to life we pay for it.Great article thanks.

(51)
OrahG.,
October 21, 2006 10:29 PM

1 Hour at Wal-Mart

very meaningful & nice!

(50)
J.J.Pristash,
October 21, 2006 3:57 PM

Irresponsible actions

"In the end, we must leave the wagon behind. All our work was for nothing." The work was performed by Wal-Mart as they had to return to the shelves the merchandise you irresponsibly abandoned

(49)
DR.ANATOLEKARMEN,
October 21, 2006 3:42 PM

WONDERFUL STORY !!!!

WE HAVE ALL BEEN TRAPPED IN SITUATIONSIN LIFE WHERE TIME IS OF THE ESSANCE.RABBI SALOMON HAS THE ABILITY TO WRITESO WELL THAT YOU CAN FEEL HIS TENSION AND FRUSTRATIONS IN THIS STORY.

(48)
DavidN.Friedman,
October 20, 2006 1:51 PM

Another Lesson

Rabbi Salomon presents a parallel of shopping and life's ultimate meaning and experience.

Wal-Mart is truly a blessing and remarkable business. I have long since discovered that one of the best things about Wal-Mart is that they are open 24 hours. Therefore, I regularly shop there at midnight when it is almost completely empty and there is no rush and panic.

I do not think Rabbi Salomon would wish to re-write what he has said if he could change his experience to shopping at midnight on a Monday instead of 6:00 PM on a Friday. The "desperation" that he alludes to may still be valid even when we take our time in acquiring it.

Getting "what we really need" is a fine reminder of what we are supposed to do in our lives. Acquiring the luxuries are fine, I suppose he would agree, as long as we understand that they are not essentials and we behave accordingly.

It seems to me this is precisely what Jewish wisdom is all about: balance and priorities.

I thank Rabbi Salomon for reminding all of us of that lesson.

(47)
Andy,
October 20, 2006 5:49 AM

Chava makes a good point and Avrahamturetsky makes a good counterpoint.Ask the Jewsih ehicist at Aish .com? I am guessing that failing at derech eretz even with a kippa on ones head is preferable to violating shabbos .I am guessing it would have been best to put back the perishables or at lesat to tell an employee that an emergency came up and have to leave now so could someone please take care of restocking.

(46)
Melanie,
October 19, 2006 5:32 PM

Walmart labor practicies

I enjoyed your Walmart article, but everyone needs to do someplease do some research into Wal-Mart's labor practices and give it some thought before you shop there again.

(45)
avrahamturetsky,
October 19, 2006 4:54 PM

response to Chava

one second, ChavaAre you really suggesting that Rabbi Salomon should have gone back to reshelf the items and disregarded the fact that Shabbos was starting in only 14 minutes, with whatever chilul Shabbos may be likely involved? And if you are not suggesting that, then what are you suggesting? And if you are not suggesting anything, then what, with all due respect, is the point of your post? True, some people don't adequately appreciate the mitzvos that are bein Adam l'Chaveiro so perhaps that's what you had in mind when you commented, but at the same time mitzvos bein Adam L'Makom (such as Shabbos) cannot be trampled on either. It is certainly derech eretz, under normal circumstances, to reshelf things, but are you really suggesting that it justifies chilul Shabbos?

(44)
Anonymous,
October 19, 2006 3:05 PM

A lesson for life

I really enjoyed this story. An important lesson in life I think!

(43)
SusanProctor,
October 19, 2006 8:47 AM

Great article

Enjoyed the article & the lessons contained therein but was extremely disappointed that to learn that Rabbi Salomon is in my opinion, not practicing social responsibility by NOT shopping at Walmart.Susan ProctorTemple Beth ElCharlotte NC

(42)
Chava,
October 18, 2006 8:19 PM

Hurting others is not worthy of a Shabbes keeper

If a person is shomer Shabbos...if a person tries to follow G-d's mitzvot to the extent that he(she) wouldn't want to break Shabbat by buying items at Wal-Mart...it seems wrong to leave damaged produce (squished grapes and peaches)and items to be reshelved. I thought that part of the reason we keep mitzvot is to instill in us regular moral behavior and holiness. Damaging produce and leaving it is basically stealing and abandoning items to be reshelved for ones own purposes just seems selfish to me. 'Hope no one saw the good Rabbi walk away from his cart while wearing a kippah.

(41)
BobbyDeneke,
October 18, 2006 5:57 PM

I love to hate Wal-Mart

Your article was captivating. I enjoyed it completely. I, for some reason, saw myself going through your very experience. Probably something connected with my self-refusal to shop "there".

(40)
Yehudis,
October 18, 2006 9:10 AM

"Learned a lot"

The lessons R' Salomon learned are nice and all but I am very surprised that he did not articulate the most basic lesson to be learned from his experience.

The "tear of shame" - was that because he knew good and well how a Jew is supposed to prepare to welcome the Shabbos Queen and he blew it? But he didn't write anything about that! Creative lessons about life are food for thought, but what about SHABBOS????

(39)
HeidiThibodeau,
October 18, 2006 8:51 AM

Thanks for sharing your experience.

I loved this article . . . it really made me stop and think about what's distracting me from my purpose in life, both in the past and present. Hopefully I can learn to avoid those distractions in the future. Thanks!

(38)
DavidS.Levine,
October 17, 2006 7:16 PM

Wall Mart--An Ethical Company; Good for America

Despite all the lefties have written about it the fact remains that because of Wall Mart low income Americans are able to purchase food, clothing, auto supplies and household goods that they would not be alle to afford were it not for Wall Mart. Wall Mart has kept inflation low and has made the USA more competitive in world markets. Wall Mart is a store which SHOULD be patronized by moral people!

(37)
EleanorWright,
October 17, 2006 3:37 PM

So True

I enjoyed your article. Everything you said was so true. We are here for such a short time. I look forward to more of your articles.

(36)
aaronfox,
October 17, 2006 2:53 PM

It's the Galut stupid!

It astonishes me how this Rabbi didn't learn out from this experience the power of the galut (exile) over the Jews of America. Moses begged Hashem not for riches or longer life but to cross over the Jordan river and plant his food on the dirt of Eretz Israel. The American Jews, leaders and Rabbis alike, have forsaken this desire for the likes of Walmart. This is what should be learned from this experience. The comfort of the slave.I'm really starting to feel sorry for the American Jews. So much life lost. I hope the $5.99 caffine free, diet Pepsi is worth it.Jews of America, leave your shopping cart filled with stuff behind and come to the land of milk and honey. There's still time.

(35)
Susan,
October 17, 2006 1:16 PM

"Wonderful" Wal-mart

Wonderful - I myself have a love/haterelationship with Wal-Mart - thisarticle helps illuminate the reasons!It is not only cheap goods versusmistreated world-wide employees. Thankyou very much!

(34)
DeannaCooner,
October 17, 2006 12:14 PM

wal-mart

Loved the article, so true. I have recently begun a quest to avoid wal-mart altogether, mostly because of their new policy of supporting homosexual events. But it is not easy, but it is doable. I have found I have more time when I shop the smaller stores, even though I make more stops, I am focused on my quest and do not fall into the trap of wal-mart. I found I even save money. Thanks for the laugh and the reality check.

(33)
Joan,
October 17, 2006 10:17 AM

Walmart article

Really blessed by it. I have been there, done that... so I know! Thanks for the valuable lessons!

(32)
bette,
October 17, 2006 9:34 AM

another lesson learned

maybe the real lesson is that if you shop at a store that is infamous for it's poor treatment of employees that allows the store to charge less for its merchandise you can afford two homes...

(31)
IrenaLerman,
October 16, 2006 9:39 PM

It's very timely and fine point article.

Each of us experienced similar situation and not once. Nevertheless, we don't learn the lesson as well as Rabbi Yaakov Salomon did. Clarity of his arguments,humar and refinement of article make us think about fine points of our life.

(30)
Chaya,
October 16, 2006 9:34 PM

Inspirational

A perfect story with such a true message!

(29)
emilkiogarza,
October 16, 2006 9:17 PM

what would have happened if you would have misted the deadline?no joke intended.

(28)
Jan,
October 16, 2006 7:26 PM

To many choices, not enough time...

What an excellent story. It really struck home with me as I have often tried to frantically do to much, to late because of "poor planning." I have, or should I say, I AM learning to slow down, that a deep breath and prioritize. Thank G-d for Shabbat.

(27)
MiriamHendeles,
October 16, 2006 6:24 PM

Lesson on staying focused, learned at WalMart

amazing article with relevant insightsfor managing time, goals, and priorities. Really gets the message across. I was on the edge of my seat with the author as he tried so desparately to race the clock to accumulate all the stuff...

Enjoyed this article. I've been in the same situation. Worldy distractions can easily overide our spiritual senses. Shalom Anna

(24)
JohnSimon,
October 16, 2006 4:10 PM

Great Story

I got a true belly laugh from your adventuresa in Walton-World ("Easterly direction" - so true!). But the impact was, "What is truly important? What are we doing here?" Thanks - John

(23)
ChanaZelasko,
October 16, 2006 3:52 PM

Move to Israel

Rabbi Solomon, if you move to Israel, you won't have these problems. All stores close at least 2 hours before Shabbat.

(22)
BeverlyRook,
October 16, 2006 2:38 PM

Thank you for your story

Thank you, I just shortened my grochery list. Next time I go to Wal Mart I will purpose to stick to the main thing. Also allow a little extra time just in case I see someone I havent seen in a while.

(21)
David,
October 16, 2006 2:11 PM

The gas cap is a necessity

Rabbi:

Driving around without a gas cap is irresponsible to the community. Gasoline is volatile (it smells!) and the gases it emits are serious air pollutants.While many people criticize Wal-Mart for its labor and purchasing policies, they are just trying to make money and so are really not much different from most retails businesses.

(20)
Millicent,
October 16, 2006 1:21 PM

"Avoid Temptation"

THIS EXACT SAME THING HAPPENED TO ME A MONTH AGO AT WALMART.

(19)
GailHopke,
October 16, 2006 1:14 PM

Getting Our Priorities Right

I loved this article - I give it a '10'!Over and over I can recall doing the exact same thing - cramming, seemingly important earthly needs above those of the Divine, but I have yet to see a Uhaul truck following a hearse. As I can't take it with me, I'm humbly reminded of what really counts.Thanks Rabbi Salomon - I stand corrected!

(18)
KennethBurke,
October 16, 2006 12:11 PM

We shouldn't learn anything from a trip to Wal-Mart

We shouldn't learn anything from a trip to Wal-Mart, because we shouldn't shop there. Wal-Mart is the antithesis of everything Judaisim stands for. Can we really enjoy a purchase there knowing how badly they treat their employees? Or how their demand for ever lower prices has driven jobs out of America? Or how their suppliers foreign employees are overworked and underpaid to keep those prices lower?I will not shop at Wal-Mart until they start paying their employees a living wage, provide reasonably priced health insurance, and allow unions.A rabbi should know better.

(17)
Anonymous,
October 16, 2006 12:10 PM

Wal-Mart

One of teh funniest, truest and best articles I've read in a long time.I've only been a couple of times to a Walmart's store. once locally and once in another state.I didn't like the experiences very much so why am I waiting for the new Wal-Mart's being built in my neighbourhood to be finished so I can visit it?

I cannot tell you how much I related to this article and especially the wisdom found upon reflection. Thank you Rabbi Yaakov Salomon.

(14)
Beatrice,
October 16, 2006 11:19 AM

Shame on you for even considering shopping at Wal-Marts.

(13)
DavidS.Levine,
October 16, 2006 9:28 AM

Monticello?

A terrific story with great lessons! MUST have taken place in Monticello.

(12)
Solyna,
October 16, 2006 9:13 AM

Cute

very cute and oh so true.

(11)
RocheleFaust,
October 16, 2006 8:38 AM

A Parable of Perfect Perception

As a therapist, I am always looking for articles to give to my clients, and this is perfect for anyone who needs a perception adjustment. Bravo, Rabbi Solomon!

(10)
RonnaA.Harris,
October 16, 2006 8:35 AM

A real 'no-no'

Dear Rabbi,

Your article was delightful and certainly very well written. I felt the mounting tension as you wrote of each second escaping. Your conclusion was totally enlightening and well conceived.

You simply missed one vital point and that is that shopping in Wal-Mart is a total 'no-no' to a conscientious and ethical person. Yes, I know I can get absolutely kosher/parve apple pies from the freezer of their bakery. They are really scrumptious. Yes, I know I can get the very best possible prices on the vegetarian delights that my kids adore. However, Wal-Mart is in and of itself TRAIFE ! I don't go in that store ever. I won't hammer you with my lectures, I will save the lectures for all of my friends and family who rue the day that they mention Wal-Mart or Sam's Club within my hearing. Just go on-line and read about that company. They will single handedly undermine the economy of the United States. Strong words aren't they? But they are not ethical in their treatment of their employees. I don't go there. You probably shouldn't go there either.

Ronna A. Harris, M.Ed., M.P.H., N.J.W. (Nice Jewish Woman)

(9)
RhondaRhodes,
October 16, 2006 8:17 AM

One Hour Wal Mart

I have to say I snickered the complete time I was reading this article. I saw myself too clearly. The Wal Mart Supercenter is a Sodom and Gomarrah to me and a few others I know. All kinds of pleasures, temptations, and all those lil yellow cheap come'on and buy it spirits all over that store...I like you are tripped by the snares that are laid out before me. I appreciate your article and has given me a sharper image of myself in the abyss called Wal Mart Supercenter~ :0)

(8)
SueVogan,
October 16, 2006 6:36 AM

radio show

I would very much like to speak with Rabbi Salomon about his Wal Mart article and possibly booking him on my radio show. This article is so true and well done that I believe the whole world should hear it.

(7)
charlessaltzman,
October 16, 2006 6:32 AM

Much Ado About Nothing

Simple, next time put aside your compulsions and make priorities your quest !

(6)
Daniela,
October 16, 2006 5:42 AM

EXCELLENT!!!!

Toda Raba!!!!

(5)
liz,
October 16, 2006 4:55 AM

great article

I made aliyah years ago, but I still go back to the US occasionally to visit. As an outsider, the superstore phenomenon really hit me as the ultimate in Galus - hard to resist, and in the end just not worth it! Bravo to R' Salomon for putting the mega-shopping experience in spiritual perspective.

(4)
JoelShapiro,
October 16, 2006 12:28 AM

My 20 minutes considering 1 hour at Wal-Mart

Dear Rabbi Salomon,

While reading your article of your hour in Wal-Mart itoccurred to me while you contended throughout you werecontinually cognizant of the impending Shabbat ... inall due respect I feel you really weren't, not in terms of how trulyholy it is.

OK, you needed a gas cap - fair enough - and justgetting it would have given you enough time to gethome, relax to be with your family; this is whatShabbat is all about ... not getting in as much asyou can before the SHABBAT HOUR COMES! in the samesense you're just want to be on particularly bestbehavior between Rosh Hashanna and Yom Kippur anymore than any other time of the year.

Indeed Rosh Hashanna and Yom Kippur are referredto as: "High Holidays" for good reason but to methere are 52 higher holidays than these twobecause in them there is the constant affiramationof what being Jewish is all about. The way Ilook at it Shabbat is a little "Yom Kippur" everyweek.

The trade-off of getting your deals in on Fridayis magnified with respect to Shabbat versus anyother day. Unless there are mitagating circumstances like an impending death etc., thetime spent with your family during Shabbat is ina way more precious than any other day duringthe week were the trade off of being home latefor dinner for a good deal at Wal-Mart is a mucheasier call.

When Wal-Mart which I guess sells everythingunder the sun (and if not soon will) can sellme guaranteed additional quality time in healthand sound mind for myself and my family for thetime I spent in their store ... is the otherstuff a deal or no deal? The answer I hope isobvious.

Joel S.

(3)
Rachel,
October 15, 2006 8:32 PM

Wal Mart is also open Sat. night!

Seems to me there is nothing wrong with buying your wife the hard peaches that she likes and your favorite diet Pepsi. Wal Mart is surely open Sat. night after Shabbos ends and on Sunday, too, so go back and get everything without making yourself sick over it.If you drove for weeks without the gas cap, the cap could've waited one more day till Shabbat was over. But maybe you ought to go to Pep Boys, where they will be able to get you the right size!Good Luck!

(2)
Anonymous,
October 15, 2006 6:51 PM

GREAT article - and I do hate WalMart, LOL

"Always low wages - ALWAYS"

(1)
Anonymous,
October 15, 2006 5:07 PM

The same thing happened to me this past Shabbat

I was sitting down practicing at the piano and before I knew it, the sun was sinking below the horizon. I had completely lost track of time, thinking I had all of it in the world. I simply stopped what I was doing, did a few last minute preparations, and made it into Shabbat with about four minutes to spare. I also took a few lessons with me into that Shabbat. I realized, like your article so poignantly illustrates, just how much we allow trivial pursuits to take on a life of their own, as if they were the most important things in the world to us. What a pity that we distract ourselves this way, only realizing how precious our time is when we have none left of it. Only then do we wish we had done x, y, and z. My experience taught me that Shabbat is a gift that G-d gives us to remind us to appreciate each precious moment and maximize our time in truly worthwhile things.

I've been striving to get more into spirituality. But it seems that every time I make some progress, I find myself slipping right back to where I started. I'm getting discouraged and feel like a failure. Can you help?

The Aish Rabbi Replies:

Spiritual slumps are a natural part of spiritual growth. There is a cycle that people go through when at times they feel closer to God and at times more distant. In the words of the Kabbalists, it is "two steps forward and one step back." So although you feel you are slipping, know that this is a natural process. The main thing is to look at your overall progress (over months or years) and be able to see how far you've come!

This is actually God's ingenious way of motivating us further. The sages compare this to teaching a baby how to walk. When the parent is holding on, the baby shrieks with delight and is under the illusion that he knows how to walk. Yet suddenly, when the parent lets go, the child panics, wobbles and may even fall.

At such times when we feel spiritually "down," that is often because God is letting go, giving us the great gift of independence. In some ways, these are the times when we can actually grow the most. For if we can move ourselves just a little bit forward, we truly acquire a level of sanctity that is ours forever.

Here is a practical tool to help pull you out of the doldrums. The Sefer HaChinuch speaks about a great principle in spiritual growth: "The external awakens the internal." This means that although we may not experience immediate feelings of closeness to God, eventually, by continuing to conduct ourselves in such a manner, this physical behavior will have an impact on our spiritual selves and will help us succeed. (A similar idea is discussed by psychologists who say: "Smile and you will feel happy.")

That is the power of Torah commandments. Even if we may not feel like giving charity or praying at this particular moment, by having a "mitzvah" obligation to do so, we are in a framework to become inspired. At that point we can infuse that act of charity or prayer with all the meaning and lift it can provide. But if we'd wait until being inspired, we might be waiting a very long time.

May the Almighty bless you with the clarity to see your progress, and may you do so with joy.

In 1940, a boatload 1,600 Jewish immigrants fleeing Hitler's ovens was denied entry into the port of Haifa; the British deported them to the island of Mauritius. At the time, the British had acceded to Arab demands and restricted Jewish immigration into Palestine. The urgent plight of European Jewry generated an "illegal" immigration movement, but the British were vigilant in denying entry. Some ships, such as the Struma, sunk and their hundreds of passengers killed.

If you seize too much, you are left with nothing. If you take less, you may retain it (Rosh Hashanah 4b).

Sometimes our appetites are insatiable; more accurately, we act as though they were insatiable. The Midrash states that a person may never be satisfied. "If he has one hundred, he wants two hundred. If he gets two hundred, he wants four hundred" (Koheles Rabbah 1:34). How often have we seen people whose insatiable desire for material wealth resulted in their losing everything, much like the gambler whose constant urge to win results in total loss.

People's bodies are finite, and their actual needs are limited. The endless pursuit for more wealth than they can use is nothing more than an elusive belief that they can live forever (Psalms 49:10).

The one part of us which is indeed infinite is our neshamah (soul), which, being of Divine origin, can crave and achieve infinity and eternity, and such craving is characteristic of spiritual growth.

How strange that we tend to give the body much more than it can possibly handle, and the neshamah so much less than it needs!